Travel and Hotels
The host institution: University of Cyprus
University of Cyprus (UCY) was established in 1989 and admitted its first students in 1992. Despite its young age, the university offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate and vocational programmes and has developed a strong research activity. University of Cyprus aims to establish itself as a Pioneer Research Institution achieving International Scientific Recognition in European Higher Education, offering Competitive Programmes and to become a Centre of Excellence in the wider Euro – Mediterranean Region. The main objectives of the University are twofold: the promotion of scholarship and education through teaching and research, and the enhancement of the cultural, social and economic development of Cyprus.
Location and Access
UCY has a new and impressive main Campus located on the outskirts of east Nicosia, the island’s capital city.
The UCY is easily accessible by public and private transportation, while at the same time being on the outskirts of the city, which allows it to spread in an area of 90000m², with a future plan to reach a total of 280000m². UCY boasts for its modern and advanced infrastructure, a decisive factor for its leading role in Cyprus and the Euro-Mediterranean region, both for its contribution to research and education, as well as for hosting international conferences.
Located on campus are three buildings that are used only for teaching purposes, featuring state of the art classrooms, amphitheaters, auditoriums and seminar rooms, all equipped with audio-visual means. Additionally, each building hosts a cafeteria at the lower level, while each floor is equipped with vending machines.
Nicosia – The host City
Nicosia (Lefkosia) is the capital of Cyprus. It is the last divided capital of the world. The division occurred in 1974 following a Turkish military invasion. Despite the division, Nicosia is a city that will reward its visitors looking for “something different’. The various architectural influences are visible throughout the city. The past and present, the traditional and contemporary are fused together and they can charm everyone.
The old town will fascinate you. All at once, you will be transported back to Medieval times as the city is enclosed by Venetian star-shaped walls. Yet, just a heartbeat away you are undoubtedly in a progressive, European capital. There is no end to the options that Nicosia provides, blending the current with the traditional. Its retail experience ranges from town centers and malls to traditional shopping quarters of winding streets. Its leisure and nightlife are a mixture of the popular and exclusive, with trendy bars that nestle amidst old, historically rich monuments. A wealth of interesting galleries and museums mix with fun entertainment for all the family. And its selection of cuisine is equally as diverse as its overall character.
Getting here and around
Passports and Visas
Entry regulations apply only to the areas controlled by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus. A passport is required by all travelers, except for holders of:
- Laissez-Passer issued by the United Nations.
- Document issued to stateless persons and recognized refugees.
Citizens of the European Union (EU) countries, as well as of Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway may enter Cyprus with their national identity card, provided there is a photograph.
A list of countries requiring a Visa to enter Cyprus can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (www.mfa.gov.cy), which is in charge of consular and entry requirement matters.
From the airport to Nicosia
Cyprus has two International Airports:
– Larnaca International Airport (50km from Nicosia, about 40’ drive)
– Paphos International Airport (142km from Nicosia, about 120’ drive).
Shuttle Bus
The best way from the airport to Nicosia is by shuttle bus. The Kapnos Airport Shuttle bus fare from Larnaca airport to Nicosia is €9 for adults and €5 for children. From Paphos airport to Nicosia, it is €16 one way for adults and €5 for children. The shuttle also runs other routes. You can book online here: https://kapnosairportshuttle.com/timetables
Taxi
Taxis are available at airports. A taxi to Nicosia will cost you €55-€65 from Larnaca airport and €140-€170 from Pahos airport.
Intercity Bus
All major towns are linked by bus with routes at specific intervals (€4 one-way ticket, €7 two- way ticket): https://intercity-buses.com/en/ticket-prices/
- Urban buses: Urban buses operate within all major towns and run frequently during daytime, whilst in certain areas, they are extended till midnight: https://www.publictransport.com.cy
- Motion bus card: https://motionbuscard.org.cy
Vehicle Hire
Cars and motorcycles can be easily hired on the island, which is serviced fairly good surfaced roads that comply with international traffic requirements and link the towns and the various villages. If you are renting a car, please note that traffic moves on the LEFT hand-side of the road, NOT on the right.
Useful Information
Climate
Cyprus has an intense Mediterranean climate with long dry summers from mid – May to mid – October and mild winters from December to February which are separated by short autumn and spring seasons. Cyprus epitomizes the ideal weather of the region with sunny days and fine temperatures almost every day. Extremes of temperatures are rare, meaning Cyprus has something to offer every month of the year, whether it’s swimming (as late as November) or enjoying cultural sites and festivals (all year long). Spring is a wonderful time to visit to Cyprus, with pleasant daytime temperatures and many of the ancient ruins framed by a carpet of red anemones and other wildflowers. Summer is a season of high temperatures but the light breeze creates a pleasant atmosphere in the coastal areas.
Languages
The official languages of the island are Greek and Turkish, whilst English is widely spoken. German, French and Russian are also spoken within the tourism industry.
Currency and payments
The currency used in Cyprus is Euro.
Major credit cards are widely accepted throughout Cyprus, especially in major towns and tourist areas.
